Hearty Beef Stew

A Warm Hug in a Bowl!

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food to warm your soul on a chilly evening, look no further. This Hearty Beef Stew is loaded with tender steak, potatoes, and a medley of veggies, all simmering in a savory, rich broth. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful!

Whenever I make this stew, it fills the house with the most inviting aroma. It’s a family favorite, perfect for those nights when you just want to snuggle up and enjoy a wholesome meal. We usually pair it with apple slices and some crusty bread or buttery biscuits. Trust me, it’s the perfect dinner to feed a crowd or to savor on a quiet weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew

This isn’t just any beef stew—it’s a flavor-packed bowl of goodness that’s easy to prepare. With minimal prep, you can have a hearty, filling meal that hits all the right notes. The balance of tender beef, soft potatoes, and vibrant veggies creates a complete meal in one pot. Plus, the thick, rich broth is so comforting, you’ll want to savor every last drop!

Hearty Beef Stew Ingredients

Each ingredient in this stew adds a layer of deliciousness:

• Steak – Opt for bite-sized pieces of beef stew meat for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
• Tabasco sauce – Don’t worry, the heat mellows out during cooking, leaving a subtle kick.
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds a deep, robust flavor to the meat.
• Onion – Sautéed for a soft, aromatic base.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic is best!
• Beef broth – The heart of the stew, providing a flavorful liquid base.
• Potatoes – Wash, peel, and cut the potatoes evenly so they cook all together without becoming mushy or undercooked.
• Carrots – Peel and slice or shred carrots to add into the homemade stew.
• Corn and peas – Either fresh or frozen. These add color, texture, and a touch of sweetness.
• Tomato juice – For a tangy depth of flavor.
• Cornstarch – Our go-to thickener for that perfect stew consistency.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – to taste

How to Make the Best Beef Stew

Grab your dutch oven and let’s start making the best beef stew recipe!

1. Cook the Beef – Braise the beef in a bit of oil until browned on all sides. This locks in the juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
2. Build the Flavor – Stir in Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the Veggies – Toss in the onions and sauté until translucent, then add the beef broth, potatoes, and carrots.
4. Simmer – Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender. For even more tender beef, let it simmer longer.
5. Final Touches – Add the corn, peas, and tomato juice about 20 minutes before serving. For a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with a bit of beef broth and stir it in.
6. Adjust Consistency – Balance the thickness by adding more broth or cornstarch as needed. Season to taste.

Tips for Perfect Beef Stew

You will love how simple this beef stew recipe is to make! Follow these extra tips to help the process run smoother. You will love the way this classic beef stew turns out!

• Sear the Meat – Sear or braise the meat in a hot oiled skillet until all sides are nice and brown. This step is crucial for sealing in the juices and creating a rich, caramelized flavor.
• Use Leftovers – Leftover roast or beef chuck makes an excellent substitute for fresh steak. It tastes delicious and is a perfect way to use up leftovers.
• Slow cooker – Toss everything in a slow cooker for an effortless meal that will have your home smelling amazing.
• Smaller vegetables – Peas and corn cook up really quick, so don’t add them until about twenty minutes before serving.
• Mix up the Veggies – Feel free to add mushrooms, celery, green beans, or any other veggies you have on hand.
• Thicken your stew – Adjust the stew’s thickness to your liking with cornstarch or tomato paste.
• Add some flavor – Give your stew some added spice by adding some rosemary, thyme, or red pepper flakes for some heat. Try adding a little balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar for a different kick.

What to Serve with Beef Stew

There’s nothing like a slice of warm, homemade bread to complement this stew. Here are some of my favorites:

• Honey Whole Wheat Bread
• Brazilian Cheese Bread
• Irish Soda Bread
• Homemade Crescent Rolls
• Best Dinner Rolls from Scratch

Storing and Reheating Homemade Beef Stew

This beef stew makes a large amount and is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. It it nice to have some on hand for lunches, more dinners, freezing, or sharing with others around you.

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to a week. When ready to reheat, place on the stovetop until warm, or warm up in the microwave stirring in between intervals.
• Freeze – Freeze in a Ziplock bag or container for several weeks. Thaw and reheat when needed.

More Delicious Soup and Stew Recipes

If you loved this Beef Stew, you’ll want to try these cozy soup recipes next!
Beef Goulash (Danish Style)
Creamy Vegetable Soup
Mulligatawny Soup
Texas Chili
Chicken and Rice Soup
Loaded Baked Potato Soup